Overview
Al Dhahirah Governorate is located in the western interior of Oman, bordering the United Arab Emirates to the north and the Rub al Khali desert to the west. The governorate’s capital is Ibri, and its districts also include Yanqul and Dhank. With a population of approximately 230,000, Al Dhahirah is characterized by flat desert plains, archaeological sites dating to the Bronze Age, and cross-border trade activity with the UAE. The governorate’s economy relies on agriculture, livestock, government services, and trade, with archaeological sites including the UNESCO World Heritage listed Bat, Al-Khutm, and Al-Ayn beehive tombs providing cultural tourism potential.
Key Facts
- Capital city of Ibri in western interior Oman
- Population of approximately 230,000 residents
- Borders the United Arab Emirates to the north
- Home to UNESCO World Heritage Bat and Al-Ayn archaeological sites
- Economy based on agriculture, livestock, trade, and government services
- Cross-border trade activity with the UAE
- Bronze Age archaeological sites of international significance
Significance for Vision 2040
Al Dhahirah’s UNESCO World Heritage sites give it international cultural tourism significance that Vision 2040 can leverage for regional development. The governorate’s archaeological heritage, dating back over 5,000 years, provides evidence of Oman’s deep historical roots and can be developed into compelling visitor experiences with appropriate interpretation and infrastructure. Vision 2040’s balanced regional development objectives require investment in education, healthcare, and economic opportunities in peripheral governorates like Al Dhahirah to prevent population decline and ensure equitable access to services. The governorate’s border position with the UAE also creates opportunities for cross-border trade and economic cooperation that can be formalized and expanded under Vision 2040’s trade facilitation initiatives.